http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iodine-QuickFacts/
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Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health
Iodine is a mineral found in some foods. The body needs iodine to make thyroid hormones, which control the body's metabolism. The body also needs thyroid hormones for proper bone and brain development during pregnancy and infancy. Getting enough iodine is especially important for pregnant women and infants.